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Written question asked by Patrick Grady (Scottish National Party) on Monday, 15 April 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 23 April 2024 (named day). It was answered by David Rutley (Conservative) on Tuesday, 23 April 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.


Western Sahara: Natural Resources

Question

To ask the Deputy Foreign Secretary, pursuant to the Answer of 9 February 2024 to Question 12714 on Western Sahara: Natural Resources, whether it is his policy that commercial activity in Western Sahara requires the agreement of recognised representatives of the Saharawi people to be compliant with international law.

Answer

We do not consider commercial activity to be illegal in Western Sahara, providing it respects the interests of the Sahrawi people. The UK continues to support the UN-led efforts and the work of Staffan de Mistura as Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General to Western Sahara and we continue to encourage constructive engagement with the political process and monitor progress.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
21703
Session
2023-24
Related items
Western Sahara: Natural Resources
Friday, 9 February 2024
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
International law Natural resources Western Sahara Indigenous peoples
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk